Table of Contents
Quick Summary / At A Glance
- Organic face oils can hydrate and nourish skin, provide antioxidants and vitamins, and be used alone or as part of a wider skincare routine.
- Choose an oil for your skin type: light, non-pore-clogging oils for oily skin, more emollient oils for dry skin, and fragrance-free options for sensitive skin.
- Jojoba, rosehip and argan oils are described most often, as emollient, nutrient-rich and soothing options respectively.
- Light oils such as jojoba, grapeseed and almond are described as absorbing readily, helping to lock in moisture without clogging pores.
- Patch-test every new oil first, start with a few drops on clean skin, and ask a dermatologist or skincare professional if you are unsure.
What Organic Face Oils Are and What They Can Do
Organic face oils are made from natural ingredients. They can help to hydrate and nourish the skin, while also providing antioxidants and vitamins.
Face oils can be used on their own or as part of a larger skincare routine, including alongside serums or creams. When choosing one, look for an oil suitable for your skin type and containing ingredients you are familiar with.
The original article describes organic oils as free of synthetic ingredients. It also notes that organic face oils are described as free of synthetic fragrances, parabens, sulfates and other harsh chemicals.
Choosing an Oil by Skin Type
There is no single oil that suits everyone. The right choice depends on your skin type and on the effect you are hoping for.
For oily skin, look for a light texture that will not clog pores. For dry skin, choose a more emollient oil, and for sensitive skin, choose an oil described as hypoallergenic and free of fragrances and other potential irritants.
| Skin type | What to look for | Oil types named in the original |
|---|---|---|
| Dry | More emollient oils; oils rich in omega-3 fatty acids | Rosehip seed, evening primrose, cranberry seed, apricot kernel |
| Oily | Light texture; will not clog pores; may help regulate sebum | Jojoba, grapeseed |
| Sensitive | Hypoallergenic; free of fragrances and potential irritants | Jojoba, rosehip, argan |
| Aging appearance | Oils high in vitamin E or vitamin C, depending on goal | Rosehip seed, argan, cranberry seed, seabuckthorn berry |
Main Oil Types Compared
The table below uses only descriptions given in the original article. It is a comparison of properties, not a ranking and not a recommendation of any branded product.
| Oil | Properties described in the original | Notes on use in the original |
|---|---|---|
| Jojoba | Natural emollient; softens and hydrates; non-comedogenic; closely resembles natural sebum; rich in vitamin E and zinc | Described for oily, sensitive and all skin types; absorbs readily |
| Rosehip | Rich in essential fatty acids and antioxidants; rich in vitamins A and C | Described for dry, sensitive and aging skin |
| Argan | High in antioxidants; rich in vitamin E and fatty acids | Described for soothing irritated skin, hydration, sensitive and aging skin |
| Grapeseed | Light in texture; will not clog pores; helps lock in moisture | Described for oily skin and for absorption |
| Almond | Light in texture; will not clog pores; helps lock in moisture | Described for absorption |
| Marula | High in oleic acid and linoleic acid | Described for balancing oily skin |
| Coconut | Described as a natural antimicrobial; deeply moisturizing | Named for cleansing and in the sensitive skin list |
Jojoba, Rosehip and Argan in More Detail
Jojoba Oil
Jojoba oil is a natural emollient that helps to soften and hydrate the skin, and it is described as non-comedogenic, meaning it will not clog pores. It closely resembles the natural sebum produced by our skin, so it is described as easily absorbed.
The article also describes jojoba as rich in vitamins and minerals such as vitamin E and zinc. It says jojoba can help to balance oily skin without stripping away moisture.
Rosehip Oil
Rosehip oil is rich in essential fatty acids and antioxidants, making it an option the article describes for nourishing and revitalizing the skin. Rosehip oil, including rosehip seed oil, is also described as rich in vitamins A and C.
For sensitive skin, the article describes rosehip as known for helping with the appearance of damage and elasticity. It also describes rosehip as helping to brighten the skin and even out tone.
Argan Oil
Argan oil is derived from the kernels of argan trees that grow in Morocco. It is rich in nutrients such as vitamin E and fatty acids, which make it an option described for hydration and nourishment.
The article also describes argan oil as helping to reduce inflammation and redness while evening out skin tone. It describes argan as suitable in lists for sensitive skin and for aging skin.
Other Oils Named in the Original Article
Grapeseed oil and almond oil are named among the oils that absorb best into face skin, because they are light in texture and will not clog pores. They are also described as helping to lock in moisture and nourish the skin.
Marula oil is extracted from the kernels of the marula tree fruit. It is high in oleic acid and linoleic acid, which the article describes as making it good for balancing oily skin and reducing inflammation.
Coconut oil and olive oil are named, with argan and jojoba, among oils that can be used on the face for cleansing. Coconut oil is described as deeply moisturizing, and these cleansing oils are also described as helping to remove dirt or makeup.
Cranberry seed oil and apricot kernel oil are named as better choices for dry skin in the aging-skin section. Evening primrose oil, like rosehip seed oil, is named for dry skin because it is rich in omega-3 fatty acids.
Face Oils and the Appearance of Aging Skin
As we age, skin naturally begins to lose some of its elasticity and firmness. Fine lines and wrinkles start to appear, and skin can take on a more dull, dry appearance.
First consider your skin type: rosehip seed oil and argan oil are named as non-comedogenic options, while cranberry seed oil or apricot kernel oil are named for dry skin. Then consider the result you are looking for.
For help reducing the appearance of wrinkles, the article suggests looking for an oil high in vitamin E, such as rosehip seed oil or argan oil. To brighten the complexion, it suggests an oil with vitamin C, such as cranberry seed oil or seabuckthorn berry oil.
Rosehip oil is also described as beneficial for hydration and collagen production, and as helping to diminish the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, scars and dark spots. Argan oil is described as helping to improve elasticity and fight fine lines and wrinkles.
Face Oils for Sensitive Skin
Organic face oils are described as a way to moisturize and nourish sensitive skin, helping to soothe and protect it while providing essential nutrients. For sensitive skin, fragrance and other potential irritants are a particular reason to read ingredient lists carefully.
Rosehip, argan and jojoba are all listed for sensitive skin in the original article, for the properties described above. Coconut oil is also listed there, described as a natural antimicrobial and as deeply moisturizing.
Sensitive skin is also a reason to patch-test first and to stop using an oil if it irritates your skin. If irritation continues, seek advice from a healthcare professional rather than trying more products.
How to Apply a Face Oil
When applying face oil, start with a clean face. Apply a few drops to cleansed skin in the morning and at night, and massage in until absorbed.
A face oil can be used in place of a regular moisturizer, or alongside it, as part of a regular skincare routine. It can also be used alone or in conjunction with other products, such as serums or creams.
The article also describes face oils as usable to cleanse skin and as a makeup remover, as well as to tone skin. If you are not sure which oil is right for you, ask a dermatologist or another skincare professional for help for your skin type and needs.
Cautions: Patch Tests, Pores and Irritation
Patch-test a new oil on a small area of skin before using it on your whole face, and wait to see how your skin reacts. This is especially important for sensitive skin and for any oil you have not used before.
Not every oil suits every person, and an oil described as non-comedogenic for some may still clog pores or irritate another person’s skin. If you notice breakouts, irritation or discomfort after starting an oil, stop using it.
Choose familiar ingredients where you can, and check the ingredient list before use. A product described as organic is not a guarantee that it will suit your skin.
Conclusion
Organic face oils can be a simple way to nourish and moisturize skin when the oil type is matched to your skin type and the effect you want. Keep expectations modest, use only a little at a time, and choose based on properties rather than on branded product claims.
This article is general information only and is not medical advice. Please consult a healthcare professional for personal advice.